Using traffic light labels to improve food selection in recreation and sport facility eating environments. (1st August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Olstad, Dana Lee; Vermeer, Julianne; McCargar, Linda J.; Prowse, Rachel J.L.; Raine, Kim D.
• Is Part Of: Appetite. Volume 91(2015)
• Page Start: 329
• Page End: 335
• Publication Date: 2015-08-01
• Subjects: Traffic light labeling -- Concession -- Out-of-home eating environment -- Dietary behavior -- Healthy eating -- Recreation and sport facility; Food habits -- Periodicals; Appetite -- Periodicals; Appetite disorders -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 306.4613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2015.04.057
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6663

Abstract

Highlights: We labeled foods in a concession with traffic light labels. Sales of green-labeled foods increased and sales of red-labeled foods decreased. The effectiveness of traffic light labeling did not differ among subgroups. Average daily revenues did not differ between the baseline and labeling periods. Traffic light labels improved food selection in an out-of-home eating environment. Abstract: Many recreation and sports facilities have unhealthy food environments, however managers are reluctant to offer healthier foods because they perceive patrons will not purchase them. Preliminary evidence indicates that traffic light labeling (TLL) can increase purchase of healthy foods in away-from-home food retail settings. We examined the effectiveness of TLL of menus in promoting healthier food purchases by patrons of a recreation and sport facility concession, and among various sub-groups. TLL of all menu items was implemented for a 1-week period and sales were assessed for 1-week pre- and 1-week post-implementation of TLL (n = 2101 transactions). A subset of consumers completed a survey during the baseline (n = 322) and intervention (n = 313) periods. We assessed change in the proportion of patrons' purchases that were labeled with green, yellow and red lights from baseline to the TLL intervention, and association with demographic characteristics and other survey responses. Change in overall revenues was also assessed. There was an overall increase in sales of green (52.2% to 55.5%; p < 0.05) and a reduction in sales of red (30.4% to 27.2%; p < 0.05) light items from baseline to the TLL period. The effectiveness of TLL did not differ according to any of the demographic or other factors examined in the survey. Average daily revenues did not differ between the baseline and TLL periods. TLL of menus increased purchase of healthy, and reduced purchase of unhealthy foods in a publicly funded recreation and sport facility, with no loss of revenue. Policymakers should consider extending menu labeling laws to public buildings such as recreation and sports facilities to promote selection of healthier items.